About 22CI

The 22nd Century Initiative (22CI) is a strategy and action hub catalyzing the possibility of an equitable, pluralistic, people-centered democracy—now and for the future. We convene and connect frontline organizations, statewide groups, and national movements to resist authoritarianism, build democratic infrastructure, and bridge long-term visions with immediate strategies. Through a “block, build, and bridge” framework, we develop narrative and cultural strategies, support alignment across the pro-democracy field, and seed initiatives to strengthen people-powered movements.

We are a small and nimble team driven by deep analysis, historical grounding, and bold imagination. As we grow in a demanding political climate, the Deputy Director (DD) will play a critical role in ensuring that our internal systems, external partnerships, and cross-team efforts are aligned and effective.

Position Summary

The Deputy Director helps implement the strategic direction of 22CI, supports staff and program cohesion, and along with the Executive Director, stewards external relationships and partnerships. The DD serves as a thought partner to the Executive Director and helps shape the organization’s vision while coordinating program implementation, fostering cross-team integration, and supporting a culture of care and accountability.

This position is ideal for a seasoned leader with a passion for pro-democracy movements, experience in organizational leadership and development, and a deep commitment to justice and liberation.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Staff Management

• Work closely with the Executive Director and Managing Director to ensure alignment across programs, communications, operations, and fundraising.
• Weave together annual plans and strategies across departments to support shared goals and mission impact.
• Facilitate regular staff meetings, retreats, and strategic planning efforts in a way that centers equity and collective input.

Program Integration & Strategic Alignment

• Ensure continuity across 22CI initiatives and act as a connective tissue across internal and external efforts.
• Collaborate with staff to set measurable goals, timelines, and evaluation processes that are adaptable to political conditions.
• Support rapid response and long-term strategy with the necessary infrastructure and staffing support.

Fundraising & Resource Development

• Lead development of grant proposals, reports, and donor communications.
• Cultivate relationships with institutional and individual donors.
• Work with the Managing Director to monitor budgets, ensure compliance, and grow financial sustainability.

Advisory Committee & External Engagement

• Engage Advisory Committee members to support resource development, visibility, and field leadership.
• Collaborate with committee members to amplify 22CI’s work through thought partnership and external opportunities.
• Represent 22CI in key coalitions, funder briefings, and public forums as needed.

Executive Leadership Support

• Partner with the Executive Director to set organizational priorities and facilitate sound decision-making.
• Provide critical input on organizational vision, field alignment, and long-term strategy.
• Support a culture that values collective care, accountability, innovation, and adaptability.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years of experience in organizational leadership, staff management, and strategic implementation with at least 5 years of executive-level leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex political and social conditions and develop adaptive strategies.
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating cross-functional collaboration.
• Demonstrated fundraising experience, including developing grant proposals and stewarding donor relationships.
• Solid understanding of financial management principles and nonprofit budgeting.
• Familiarity with grassroots organizing, digital tools, narrative work, and movement strategy.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and project management skills.
• Deep commitment to pro-democracy values, equity, and collective liberation.

Work Environment & Benefits

• Location: Remote (U.S.-based); occasional travel required.
• Equipment: Candidate must provide their own computer and basic home office setup.
• Benefits: Full benefits including generous paid time off, holidays, paid sick leave, fully covered medical/dental/vision for employee and family, and 403b option.

To Apply: Send a cover letter and CV to: jobs@22ci.org with the subject line: “Deputy Director Application.”

22nd Century Initiative is a fiscally sponsored project of Tides Center. Tides Center is an equal-opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, women, and bilingual and bicultural individuals, as well as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities and welcome your application even if you do not meet every one of the above requirements. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, political affiliation, disability, or medical condition. We encourage and consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified applicants with a disability may participate in the application process. Please advise in writing of special needs at the time of application.